NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.

Harand Camp teaches arts, social skills to children across the country

When thinking about the traditional summer camp, it’s typical to envision songs around the fire, swimming and outdoor activities.

But students at Harand Camp of the Theatre Arts, in Kenosha, Wis., have a lot more to occupy their time.

Kids and teens from across the Midwest and the nation congregate at Harand Camp to learn and enjoy the performance arts as well as sporting and recreational activities.

The camp, with headquarters in Evanston, Ill., got its start in 1955 as the brainchild of sisters Sulie and Pearl Harand and their husbands Byron Friedman (Sulie’s spouse) and Sam Gaffin (Pearl’s spouse). It actually began as a studio with workshops taught by the Harands, who had experience in Chicago’s musical theater community. They offered workshops throughout Chicagoland.

Fresh revue opens today at Star Plaza

Elmo and his friends get up close and personal with Mother Nature in Sesame Street Live's production of Elmo's Green Thumb, at the Star Plaza Theatre. (Photograph courtesy of VEE Corp. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. )

Elmo’s beloved sunflower is too big for its pot.

What’s a furry, fire engine-red monster to do?

Let’s just say Michelle Obama would give Elmo a thumb’s up, in the wake of her White House garden and her “Get Moving” campaign.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Theatre at the Center:

The incredibly popular and timeless true story The Diary of Anne Frank comes to Theatre at the Center’s Theatre for Young Audiences Monday, March 15 through Saturday, March 20.

Anne Frank was a courageous Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. While hiding in a secret attic with her family, she recorded in her diary each and every observable fact, coupled with her own reflections. This play reveals the sensitivity and emotional struggles she and her family endured during the confinement. Theatre at the Center Theatre for Young Audiences is located at 1040 Ridge Road, Munster.

NWI Parent Blog—Photographer and writer mom of two, Beth always brings a new twist to the suburban mundane.

It’s like I just moved here except that’s entirely not true because I’ve lived in this area for 98% of my life.

I drive around and see certain restaurants and stores, little shops and cafes and I think, “oh, there’s my favorite place for cupcakes” or “oh, I love to shop there for pretty things.” or “my best friend says they have the best french fries.”

I could go on and on. My favorite parks (we have many) our favorite thing to do on a Saturday, the country roads with the best foliage…you get the idea!

Continue reading Beth’s latest post here on her “Laptops to Countertops” blog.

From the NWI Parent Inbox—We’re always keeping our eye on what’s new and what’s going on in Northwest Indiana. Here’s today’s submission, sent by Indiana Ballet Theatre:

Indiana Ballet Theatre is proud to announce the production of the timeless Tchaikovsky ballet. Accompanied by the LaPorte County Symphony Orchestra and the local Children’s Choir, join Clara as she sees the Nutcracker come to life.

Andrew Amos is returning for his fifteenth year as Drosselmeyer and the Snow King with local Crown Point native Sarah Holland as the Snow Queen. Claude Gamba returns for his second year as the Sugarplum Cavalier with Crown Point native Kara Lozanovski who will perform as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

The witches are back to stir up non-scary Halloween fun. From left: Jenna Underwood, Judi Serhal and Andrea Bertsch star in The Witches Brew Ha! Ha! Friday and Saturday at the Memorial Opera House.

Michele Craig, creator of The Witches Brew Ha! Ha!, is proud of her revue’s track record at the Memorial Opera House in Valparaiso.

“It’s become a Halloween tradition for a lot of the families,” the writer-director said. “That’s the biggest comment that we’ve heard: ‘This is what we do on Halloween.’ It’s interactive for the audience and it’s just great for the kids. It’s all-around family entertainment.”

Celebrating its fifth incarnation Friday and Saturday, Witches is geared for 2- to 12-year-olds. Characters include fashion–minded Glitch Witch, kooky Sandee Witch, and elder sister B. Witch. The three witches tell the tale of “The 12 Days of Halloween,” make a witchy brew, and lead sing–a–longs and guessing games.

Matt Rudy stars as Jack and Marie Antoinette Flores as Carmelita the Cow in Jack and the Beanstalk at Theatre for Young Audiences. (Photograph courtesy of the Theatre at the Center.)

Parents who attended the 20th anniversary open house at the Theatre at the Center and asked for more public performances at the Theatre for Young Audiences got it. The bulked–up 2010–11 season kicks off with a musical version of the classic fairy tale adventure Jack and the Beanstalk on October 7.

The family classic will be followed by The Story of the Nutcracker in November, I Have A Dream in January and in March the musical adaptation of Anne of Green Gables, the famous novel by Lucy Maud Montgomery.

“We’re trying to go ahead and facilitate the demands of the audience,” said Charlie Misovye, group sales coordinator for Theatre at the Center.

The choir presents a check to the Red Cross at the Grand Ole Opry during their Nashville trip. Pictured from left to right: Aaron Riegle, Kelly Merrill, Reagan Airy, Sasha Lilovich, Reagan Holderby, Brick Ban.

This summer children have a chance to become part of a 25-year musical tradition in Northwest Indiana.

Founded in 1984, the Southlake Children’s Choir, a nonprofit choral ensemble for children ages 7 through 14 in Lake and Porter counties, will hold summer auditions for its upcoming season.

“Typically, they have a strong passion for music and performing,” says artistic director Aaron Riegle about those who audition for the choir. Riegle, who is also the choral director at Portage High School, says the auditions are “low-stress” and no preparation is necessary. “We’re just checking to see if students can match pitch and we’re getting to know them and their voice,” he says.

NWI Parent Blog—Stephanie is a stay-at-home mom to three boys and a baby girl, but don’t let that fool you. She’ll keep you in style and in-the-know with reviews on the latest products and services you’ll use, with a little bit of life thrown in.

Technically, I first met Harry Connick, Jr. in person back in February of this year at the Blissdom blog conference in Nashville, but I’ve always been a fan, since I first bought We Are In Love at a discount music store at Gurnee Mills on a high school youth group trip. And soon after I’d wear out – I mean WEAR OUT- my favorite of all his albums, 25. (I also really loved Blue Light, Red Light and 20.)

Anyway, I saw he was coming to Chicago to play at THE Chicago Theatre and so you better believe I had the thought to ask around for some good seats to his show. And, in what seems like a dream sequence still a couple days later, I not only got AMAZING seats, I also got a media pass AND “after show” tickets that required my date and I to ENTER THROUGH THE STAGE DOOR OF THE CHICAGO THEATRE.

Continue reading Stephanie’s latest post here on her “Close to Home” blog.